The Mattapan Teen Center (MTC) and New England Patriots defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr. staged the return of the annual Hazelton Street afternoon block party last Saturday. Wise, who has played for the Patriots since being drafted in 2017, and his family returned to Mattapan for the renewal of the event, which included several high-quality hip-hop performers from the large pool of talent coming out of the MTC. Hundreds of people also came for free food from food trucks from Gourmet Kreyol and Fresh Food Generation, as well as a fall Farmer’s Market by Baldour Foods. Numerous neighborhood barbers also volunteered their time to provide free haircuts and braiding on the spot for kids in the neighborhoods. Additionally, the MTC-produced documentary, ‘Mattapan The Documentary’ was shown on the big-screen during the event as its executive director, Moses Sibley, enjoyed the festivities with his mother MiShy.

Asia Spain with children Amiri and Cairo

Moses Sibley (right) and his mother, MiShy, enjoy the afternoon on Hazelton Street. Sibley was the executive director of ‘Mattapan The Documentary.’

Macky Ukiyo, Jassiel Chalas and Ajary Alexandre listen to some of the performers. The three performers are known as ‘Ethereal Visions,’ or EV.

Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox with Robert Lewis Jr., director of the Boys and Girls Club of Boston.

Cassius Green, Derek Green, and Barbara Crichlow enjoyed a wonderful event and a superb afternoon on Hazelton Street.

Maceyo Maze of the MTC and Ethereal Visions performs solo during the block party.

Police Supt. Nora Baston, Laila Calixte, Sandy Zamor Calixte Kimberly Cox, and Officer William Chen.

Solomon Wise, brother of Deatrich Wise Jr., carves a small pumpkin during the annual block party.

Genaro ‘Go Five’ Ortega puts the finishing touches on a mural created for Deatrich Wise Jr. and the block party on Saturday afternoon.

Patriots Defensive End Deatrich Wise Jr. with MTC Director Rick Aggeler. Seth Daniel photos